Labour MEPs have voted for proposals from the European Parliament designed to improve passenger travel experiences across the EU.

Lucy Anderson MEP, Labour’s European spokesperson on transport, said:

“When it comes to passengers’ rights, the EU has some of the most advanced protections around, but we know that more can be done to improve the travelling experience.

“This week, the Parliament has voted on a clear set of recommendations to make public transport easier and quicker for all users. I am delighted that many of our priorities have been supported by the overwhelming majority of MEPs.”

As part of the recommendations, Labour MEPs want the European Commission to ensure all journeys on public transport can be completed using single ticketing options, with clear real-time information on fares and journey times.

The Parliament also supported Labour’s call for free or low cost internet to be installed throughout the European transport network, ensuring all passengers can access information and book e-tickets at travel interchanges and on the go.

Lucy Anderson MEP added:

“The EU is committed to ensuring equal access to transport, so we are pushing for new requirements for operators, guaranteeing that passengers with reduced mobility or other special travel needs can request assistance easily through regular ticketing systems.

“We want to see simple, single ticketing options and real-time integrated travel information becomes the norm, because when public transport works well, people are more likely to leave their cars at home.

“If we are serious about meeting the challenges of climate change and tackling pollution we now need to make sure these recommendations are put into action in every part of Europe.”

The full plan includes:

– The introduction of ‘intelligent systems’ on transport vehicles to provide real time location information.